How to Shave Your Bikini Area

There are various methods for removing hair from the bikini area, but shaving remains the most popular option. It's fast, affordable, effective, and virtually painless (when done correctly). With some preparation, a good razor, knowledge, and aftercare, your bikini area will be smooth and soft like a petal. It's important to note that it's not just women who have bikini area hair! Men wearing swimwear such as sports briefs (like the Speedo style) or any tight-fitting swimwear should also consider trimming the bikini area.

Use a sharp razor. The hair in the bikini area is generally coarser than hair in other parts of the body, so it can be harder to shave cleanly with cheap razors that come in bulk packs. Instead, opt for a high-quality razor designed for sensitive skin. Always use a new, sharp razor, as using an old, dull one can cause skin irritation and ingrown hairs.

• Men’s razors are ideal for shaving the bikini area. They are sturdier and have more blades than women’s razors. They can shave more effectively without damaging the sensitive skin around the bikini line. (You can distinguish them by color: men’s razors are usually white, while women’s razors tend to be pink or light pastel colors.)
• Avoid using a single-blade razor unless it is extremely sharp and safe. Single-blade razors are often ineffective at removing bikini area hair. Choose a razor with 3 or 4 blades for a closer shave.
• A brand-new razor will be sharper than one that has been used. If you must use a disposable razor, be sure to use a fresh one every time for the best results. Used razors are fine for areas like the underarms or legs.

Use soap or shaving cream. It doesn’t matter which soap or cream you choose, as long as you use one. You can opt for shower gel, shaving cream, or even conditioner—anything works.

• Soaps and creams containing fragrances may irritate sensitive skin. Test the product on a less sensitive area of your body before applying it to your bikini area.

Decide how much hair you want to remove. Look in the mirror and determine how much you want to shave. Every woman’s bikini area is different, but most will focus on the hair visible when wearing swimwear. This includes the upper thigh, the area around the groin, and below the belly button.

• For a simple shaving guide, wear underwear in the bathroom. Keep them on while you shave. Any hair that extends outside the underwear needs to be shaved. (Note: this method works best when your underwear has a similar cut to swimwear.)
• If you want to remove more hair, check out the article How to Shave the Bikini Area.
• You may also consider Brazilian Waxing if you want to remove all of it.

Trim the hair to about 0.6 cm. If your hair is too long, it will get caught in the razor and make shaving difficult. Prepare by trimming the hair to around 0.6 cm or shorter. This will make the shaving process smoother.

• Gently pull the hair with one hand and carefully trim it with the other hand.
• Be careful not to cut yourself with the scissors. Trim your hair in a well-lit bathroom.

Shower with hot water under the faucet or in the bath. Hot water will soften the skin and hair, making shaving easier. Make sure to shave after your shower, once you’ve washed your hair and finished all other tasks.

• If you don't plan to shave in the shower, prepare your bikini area by applying a warm towel to it. Skipping this step can lead to skin irritation and other discomforts.
• If you have time, exfoliate your skin. This will help prevent ingrown hairs after shaving.

Create a lather for your bikini area using shaving cream or shower gel. It's crucial to make sure both the hair and skin are well-lubricated before shaving. Without proper lubrication, the razor can cause irritation. Feel free to apply generous amounts of soap to the area, and keep the product close in case you need to add more.

• During shaving, keep adding cream or shower gel to make the process smoother.
• You might want to rinse occasionally to check your progress and continue applying and shaving as needed.

Shave in the direction of hair growth, avoid shaving against it. Experts recommend shaving in the direction of hair growth to minimize skin irritation. Hold the skin firmly with one hand for better shaving control, and use the other hand to shave, applying just enough pressure to shave closely. Continue until the area is smooth.

• Many start by shaving below the belly button or around the groin. This is entirely up to you; do whatever makes the process easier for you.
• Some find it hard to shave close when going with the grain rather than against it. If you struggle, try shaving sideways to the direction of growth. Shaving against the grain should be your last resort, as there are other ways to avoid irritation.
• Don't overdo it. There's no need to go over the same spot repeatedly. If the area is clean, stop; otherwise, you'll risk irritation.

Try on your swimwear to check for missed spots. (If you're satisfied, you can skip this step, but if it's your first time shaving, it's good to double-check.) Put on your swimsuit and check yourself out, then return to the bathroom to shave any remaining hairs if necessary.

Exfoliate your skin. Use a soft cloth or a gentle exfoliating product to remove dead skin cells. This simple step helps prevent ingrown hairs and other shaving-related issues, so don’t skip it.

Prevent skin irritation. For individuals with sensitive skin, there are a few extra precautions to take.

• Many find that using witch hazel or other gentle toners helps reduce or prevent skin irritation. Apply witch hazel or other soothing toners with a cotton ball or clean cloth to the freshly shaved area. This step will help reduce swelling and keep the skin feeling smooth and fresh. (Be aware that this step may cause a stinging or burning sensation if you have nicked your skin during shaving. Be cautious.)
• Dry your skin. Gently drying the bikini area can help prevent or reduce follicle swelling. Use a blow dryer on a medium or low setting. If your blow dryer only has a high heat setting, be careful to keep the dryer away from the sensitive skin to avoid burns from the hot air. If you don’t have a blow dryer or prefer not to explain why you're drying that area, a towel works just fine.

Moisturize the skin. If the skin is dry or flaky, it will cause discomfort or irritation. This also increases the risk of uncomfortable bumps or ingrown hairs. Apply a gentle moisturizer to the shaved area and continue moisturizing for a few days. Natural and mild moisturizers are the best choices:

• Aloe vera gel
• Coconut oil
• Argan oil
• Jojoba oil

Avoid tight clothing for a few hours. Tight clothes can cause itching and swelling, so it's best to wear loose-fitting underwear, a skirt, or comfortable shorts until the skin feels less sensitive.

• Never borrow someone else's razor. This can spread skin infections or even bloodborne diseases (though very rare), even if the razor appears clean and has been washed with soap and water.
• Don’t leave your razor on the ground. While accidentally stepping on a safety razor may cause some discomfort, leaving it on the ground is still not a good idea.

• Razor
• Water
• Shaving cream or gel